My "Why"
21 years in the United States military was incredibly rewarding. I wouldn’t trade my years of service, but at the same time, it can take a toll on a person.
PTSD is very real. It affects countless people, including those who have served and those who haven’t. People who feel isolated in their pain. It claims thousands of lives each year and contributes struggles and suffering that is often misunderstood, misdiagnosed, and mischaracterized.
I’m one of those people that have suffered. And honestly, it’s a huge reason I sing and write songs. My music has helped me in my own battle with PTSD, it’s helped me to connect with others who are dealing with issues similar to mine and let them know they aren’t alone, and it’s how I aim to bring more awareness to these issues.
Far too many people are affected by PTSD, and not nearly enough is being done to help those who are impacted. I believe the music I write, perform, and record can play a role in helping to shine a light on this subject, and it’s the central driving force behind what I’m trying to do in music.
I’m Jeremy Wayne McKern, and this is my fundraising campaign.
Up 'Til Now
To be honest with you, I haven’t been at this music thing very long. I started playing guitar in January of 2021, and since then, one door after another has opened in a whirlwind few years. I started performing live in February of that year, formed a band in November, and have been fortunate to play events like Washington State Fairs Showcase, Pendleton Whiskey Bash, Texas Veterans Day Tour, and the Music Career Mastermind Showcase in Nashville.
I was awarded Best New Artist by Total Mixx Radio in West Virginia, been nominated for a Pacific Northwest Music Award for Best New Folk/Americana Album, and I’ve already had two Top 40 songs on the Texas Internet Radio Chart. I’ve even gotten to share the stage with icons like Daryl Worley and William Michael Morgan.
What I've Been Working On
Now’s the time for me to really take a big step forward in my career. I’ve built a sizable social media following, proven myself to be a legitimate artist with a distinct purpose, and I have new songs ready to produce and promote. I’ve partnered with Edgewater Music Group, a company out of Texas that has helped countless artists move their careers forward, and they have major label distribution lined up for this project as well.
But can I be really honest with you? I’m gonna need your help to get this all done.
The Challenge
Years ago, an artist like me might be able to go to a regional record label to get the funding it would take to produce and release a record like the one I’m trying to do. But the streaming era pays artists and labels so little that it’s become almost impossible to find a label willing to invest in a developing artist in this climate.
So independent artists like myself have to find a way to foot the bill for things that are essential but also expensive. Things like recording, mixing, mastering, pressing, promotion, touring… it all adds up really quickly!
Perks
This is where you come in, and why I’m asking for your support to help make this next record a reality! As a thank you for that support, I’ve got a lot of perks I’m offering in exchange for your support.
I will have both digital and physical copies of the new record we produce. I’ll have an exclusive early bird special where you can get your hands on the music way ahead of the public release date. I’ve got merch, private shows, and you can even be listed as an executive producer on the credits list of the record I make!
Here's How YOU Can Help
Here’s how you can help! Click the button on this page to support the project. Follow the prompts and enter your information, which will be stored securely, and please remember this: if I don’t meet my fundraising goal, you won’t be charged…but I also won’t get to move forward with this next crucial phase of my career. So if you can help, please do!
Thank You!
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for being a part of this project with me. I couldn’t do this without each and every one of you and your support will never be forgotten. I can’t wait to see each and every one of you soon. Thank you guys!